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I have a very severe disability: I use a wheelchair full-time, have very limited use of my hands, and some people find it difficult to understand me when I speak. This book is about how I achieved my PhD, the highest qualification a person can earn. My research took place at a special school, where I formed advocacy sessions with the young people there. In these sessions, we discussed their hopes and plans for life after school. I also shared my own experience transitioning from special education to mainstream schooling, as many of them had disabilities similar to mine. One of the main challenges in my research was the way I gathered data. Traditional one-on-one interviews were impossible because I relied on my personal assistant to interpret my speech, while each young person often required their own interpreter. As a result, we had to explore alternative methods for collecting information. Because I am unable to use pen and paper, observations were also challenging. My personal assistant took notes for me while we were at the school, and I would type them up on my computer when I got home.

We put our faith in Britain's educators to teach our children the Three Rs. But what if they could teach us as well? Jonathan opens up about life as a teacher, and in the process teaches some important lessons about leadership for everyone. From a knife flying across the classroom to outstanding inspection results, Jonathan has helped turn around four major schools from inadequate inspection reports, to being excellent in all areas. This isn't theory, this is the story of a life, with tales from a varied and successful career. It certainly doesn't pull any punches. Jonathan has taught in tough state schools and one of the best independents in the country. During that time, he encountered brilliant students with terrible parents, terrible students with brilliant parents, incompetent governors and mad headteachers. Join him as he talks about undercover operations in school, mafia gangs, false accusations, and the excitement of working with young people in some of the most difficult, as well as some of the most prestigious schools in the world. Through it all, there are leadership lessons for everyone, taken from the place everyone has experience of: their high school. There's no rocket science in taking a school through to excellence. Through the lens of an educator, Jonathan offers practical and honest examples of how to develop leadership in yourself and in others and this book shows exactly how to do it.

Zen Saxe-Coburg-Gotha Out of Body Experience is an archetypal journey of a man who was discriminated against all his life and framed for a murder he did not commit. He has the power inside to harness outer body experiences, a shadow walker through time made up of worm holes into the past and future. A remarkable short story with a collection of poems.

Jackie and Claire, the inseparable sisters, are back for another whirlwind adventure – this time across the Atlantic to Canada. What begins as a simple wedding invitation quickly unravels into a series of mishaps, misadventures, and memorable moments that test their resilience, humour, and sisterly bond. From a creepy 15th-century inn with locked doors and no reception in sight to navigating the wilds of Canada, these two are anything but ordinary travellers. A Sisterly Adventure: On Their Travels Again is a heart-warming tale filled with laughter, unexpected detours, and the kind of mischief only siblings can get up to. As Jackie and Claire face each new challenge with wit and tenacity, readers will be drawn into their lively escapades and reminded that the best journeys are those shared with loved ones – even if nothing goes quite as planned. Join these spirited sisters as they discover that adventure, like family, is full of surprises.

Most of us can hum, whistle, or tap out a favourite tune but not too many of us can recall the lyrics, the words. Yet it is the skill of the wordsmith, the lyricist who at the stroke of a pen can transport us, if only for a moment, into our own world recalling cathartic events, romantic moments and nostalgic longings for times gone by. In just a few short strokes of his pen the skilled lyricist can move us to tears or anger or is able to stimulate pride or joy. Popular music is at an all-time high and I would defy anyone reading this book not to be able to find a song that they could not identify with or indeed have been emotionally associated with at some point in their formative years or indeed in their twilight years! During the writing of this book, I admit to many moments, good and bad, when the words of skilled lyricists left their songs stimulating incidents and memories long since relegated to the back of my mind!

Rosie is hardly special in any way; she doesn't stand out amongst the masses and fades into the background alongside her close-knit flock of friends. Yet she has always wanted for things to be different, for her life to matter even the slightest bit, not only to herself but to the enveloping world around her. Finally, with voices in her head, a ring on her finger and death's hand clawing at her, she and her friends might just be able to find their worth.

Do you ever feel as though history is frustratingly repeating itself, with the dreaded ghosts of the past relentlessly attempting to sabotage your present? Has your confidence been shaken, leaving you struggling to find the courage to hold up the mirror and face vulnerability head-on? Rest assured, you're not alone! Life is inevitably filled with challenges, both at home and at work. Unfortunately, it's often our own personal shame or fear of being judged by others that can take control and hinder how we present ourselves to the world. In this book, Charmaine Vincent, a passionate, award-winning female entrepreneur, provides an honest and candid insight into her life experiences. She openly discusses the highs and lows, the shadow and the light, and how self-investment and self-belief can profoundly shape your future and help you achieve remarkable things. Discover an empowering 5-step framework that will gift you the confidence and courage to remove the mask and be authentically you, unapologetically.

Margaret Duggan, known as the ‘Matriarch', rules over a criminal empire that holds the township and people of Bridgeleigh in its oppressive grip. Extortion, prostitution, protection rackets, and murder are all hallmarks of the Duggan Family's reign of terror. With the support of a crooked police officer and a corrupt lawyer, Margaret's power seems unassailable. Into this dark and dangerous world, a mysterious stranger arrives, driven by a burning desire to end the Duggan Family's tyranny. He begins his crusade by targeting Margaret's only son, setting in motion a chain of events that will lead to a bloody and brutal war. As the battle between good and evil unfolds, the people of Bridgeleigh find themselves caught in the crossfire, their lives and futures hanging in the balance. Will the stranger's quest for justice prevail, or will the Matriarch's iron grip on the town remain unbroken?

Do you want to join the aperitivo revolution? Check ✓ Aperitivos from Around The World is a step-by-step recipe guide that will help you prepare different aperitivo snacks from around the world. It will turn you into a global flavour explorer, while your guest will feel that they have embarked on an adventure every time they enter your door.

Have you ever had a little brother or sister that was or is two years old? Do they get into your things and always seem to make you want to hide?Two-year-olds can be very annoying at times. But they can also be a lot of fun!See how Paul learns to appreciate and enjoy his two-year-old brother, Stuart.

In the Bronx of the 1930s, paradise for a kid was stickball in the street or roasting potatoes in a vacant lot. Nuns ran school with a firm hand, while the restless work ethic of immigrant communities shaped life at home. Long before the digital era, young people ruled the world of play. But they grew up quickly against a backdrop of war. Retired Rear Admiral (USNR) Joe Callo revisits his youth and offers insight on the pursuit of meaning in an over-circuited modern age.

Two of the world's most guarded secrets awaited him, and today, his journey would begin. These secrets were calling to him, drawing him in.Croman, an acronym for Combat Ready One Man Army Ninja, follows an extraordinary warrior who discovers a box of ancient ninja manuscripts, weapons, and apparel that grant superhuman abilities. Alongside rigorous training, the ghost of the founder, a legendary ninja from ancient Japan, enhances the protagonist's abilities and physical prowess.Due to his unparalleled skills, the protagonist becomes the President's secret agent, with a security clearance higher than even spies. As the sole Croman, he undertakes the most secretive military operations, including disarming a North Korean missile. However, adhering to the ninja's creed of invisibility and driven by his own preferences, he turns rogue, prompting assassination attempts by secret agents and government officials. These attempts fail, thanks to his exceptional abilities and ingenuity.The book also outlines various ‘Croman'workouts, enabling readers to train and become Croman operatives themselves. Filled with spy lore and black ops, with settings in foreign countries, this martial arts fiction doubles as a training manual. Discover if you would have followed the same path as Tony Viviano.

Evaluating the financial accounts of the Royal Bank of Scotland Group, Barclays, HSBC, and Standard Chartered Bank from 2004 – 2018 reveals a taste of the sweetness of success. It also demonstrates what could go wrong in a mega bank, the crippling price of failure, and the long hard road to recovery. This book is a historical account of the causes of instability in the banking sector in the past 40 years and an evaluation of the effectiveness or otherwise of a range of laws and regulatory measures adopted to remedy financial crises in the UK over the years. In addition, the book provides a broad review of the evolutionary development of banking and financial laws starting with seminal case laws on the subject, the Banking Act 1979, the repealed Banking Act 1987, FSMA 2000, the Company Act 2006, the Banking Reform Act 2013, Basel Accords and sundry EU Directives. John, a Barrister at Law offered a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and twenty years of practical industry experience in a commercial bank to provide legal perspectives on supervisory models necessary for stability in the banking sector, while promoting justification for creating an enabling environment for wealth creation and economic growth. The Methods and Methodology chapter would be an invaluable companion for postgraduate students and researchers.

Afflicted with a painful, supernatural parasite since childhood, Kyle had long since resigned himself to a life of isolation. Never did he predict that his sombre existence would so quickly ignite into a blazing flame of desire. Upon meeting Molly for the first time, Kyle is forced to confront a vulnerability he's never felt before. Somehow, through a remarkable capability of her own, she is able to slowly bring her light into his world. Although powerful beyond comprehension, Kyle soon learns that it's this beautiful young woman that has the most precious ability of all. Sensing the danger he poses, Kyle becomes conflicted, struggling with his incongruous nature. The more time Kyle spends with her, the more his shadow slowly dominates, successfully slipping through his restraint. As both his fear and love grow, spiralling into one another, many questions remain. Will this uncertain danger finally corrupt Kyle into the monster he dreads becoming? Can they have what they desire? Can they have each other? Although light and shadow appear polar opposites, for one to thrive, so must the other.

A Coven of Cats tells the true story of the author's longstanding love affair with cats. It begins with her experiences of growing up with cats, from the age of four, and continues with the narrative of her ongoing relationship with felines, culminating in her (and her husband's) love affairs with Burmese: animals that combine the best (and worst) features of cats, dogs and monkeys! The book is full of humour, high drama and the tragedy of loss. The central characters are the cats but the story revolves around the intimate relationship between cats and their human staff. A Coven of Cats demonstrates how enriching it can be for humans to share life's ups and downs with these animals. Far from the aloofness sometimes ascribed to felines, this book shows how loving, exciting and rewarding life with cats can be.

What do you do when your cat's been left behind in Fairy Tale Land? Why, you go to rescue him, of course! When Jill, Janet and Jenny go back to Fairy Tale Land, with their dad Jack, all sorts of adventures await them. Have you ever wanted to shrink in size? See what happens when the family does just that. Will you be able to help them sort the Mad Hatters'hats by putting the correct label to the hat? Would you be prepared to kiss a frog to help your sister? Are you brave enough to stand up to a wolf? See how the family deal with all the difficulties they encounter by reading this sequel to Jill's Rocket Adventure.

The novel recounts a tale of passion, treachery, grief and redeeming love set against the background of the glamorous but deadly world of the Florentine aristocracy. It traces the path of Lord James Markham from the discovery of his wife's depraved infidelities to his tragic affair with a young student while dealing with fraud at the bank and his brother-in-law Paolo's suicide in compromising circumstances. Urged on by his uncle, Cardinal Palmieri, he leaves for Buenos Aires is search of a former mistress, Carolina.The second half of the novel centers on Carolina, a peronista hotel receptionist whom James had bedded many years earlier. Still in love with him, despite the Malvinas, she agrees to marry him and reluctantly enters into the world of the nobility with all its licentiousness, greed and murder. She struggles to reconcile her roots with her new aristocratic lifestyle. Blessed with a lively intelligence and sturdy common sense, she proves Paolo's suicide to be murder. Arising from obscurity, she emerges as the heroine of this intensely erotic and literary novel.

Have you ever wondered, how all the wonderful objects in our museums were made? The masterly use of hand tools by our ancestors would probably be at the core of the answer. Often those skills and particularly the tools that were used have been left out of the limelight though. Are you interested in; hand tools and making objects, collecting, crafts and trades, material culture, museum studies, social history, folk art? If the answer is ‘yes'to any one of these topics, this publication may pique your curiosity! In this publication, various antique tools are illustrated and analysed, in relation to their previous functions, their cultural value as objects, and why they are studied and collected. Our current times are dominated by mass-produced objects, many being the results of computer software design and automated production lines. The tools illustrated within this book may provide refreshing alternatives to this. Take a closer look at these examples of craftsmanship from our collective past.

Starting over yet again, Chrissy has learned that life can be painful and full of hardships. Still, she remains hopeful, searching for happiness, fun, and maybe even love. Other people seem to have it all – why not her? After a traumatic childhood, a rocky entry into adulthood, and a battle with drinking that she thought she had overcome, Chrissy's husband left her to raise their children alone. She has survived so much and become a strong, successful single mother, proud of how she's taken control of her life despite everything. Surely, it's her turn for happiness now. When Chrissy meets her soul mate, her life feels like a fairy tale. Things are good – mostly. But soon, there are nights that don't end well, and the violence escalates to a point of no return. Share in Chrissy's heartbreak as her fairy-tale life unravels, leaving her world shattered and her happiness torn away.

“A speaker runs 100 meters. But a moderator runs a marathon.” - Antoni Lacinai This book let you harness the insights and concrete tips from a top international moderator, sharing all his experiences on how to add value to the events by proper preparations and awesome moderation on stage. It is your how-to guide which will be invaluable for you who is taking on the emcee work and feel a bit unsure of what to do and what it takes. You don't have to be a seasoned emcee to appreciate this book. Antoni Lacinai is a global speaker, communication coach and emcee, inspiring people across the world with his insights and positive energy.

Is the true nature of the human creature more akin to that of wolves or closer to bees or ants? What parts of the human soul are sacrificed by choosing a modern life in a crowded city-hive, an existence severed from the balance of Nature? Do wild wolves have a better sense of humanity than humans themselves? These are only a few of the questions pondered in L.M. Reid's poetry collection Wolves With Furniture, in which every intense poem is woven into the stories of Lupa the Wolf Queen and a vibrant girl born unlucky, who grows into a woman carrying within her the towering fury of a flame-haired Lilith. Will she shatter herself against her own bitter rage, or choose to live a harmonious life guided by the just laws of the wolf? By turns poignant, thought-provoking and redemptive, Wolves With Furniture explores new depths of what it means to be human.

This collection presents ten short stories, bound together by their connection to New Zealand, whether set within its shores or following the experiences of a New Zealander abroad. Spanning past, present, and even the future (as in the story ‘Good Grazing'), these tales explore a range of moods and themes, from the light-hearted to the thought-provoking. In the tradition of Shakespearean comedies, most stories here find their way to a satisfying end, though ‘The Magpie'and ‘Walk a Mile'venture into darker territories, offering readers food for thought. Fans of ‘The Cone Man'will be delighted by the return of Norman Humbolt, now grappling with the entanglements of modern politics and social media – with unexpected results. Two of the stories, ‘Good Grazing'and ‘As a New Zealander Might Regard Rome', touch on contemporary social issues related to Māori culture, portraying a hopeful future with a touch of humour. At its heart, this collection is a lighthearted journey into the world as a New Zealander might see it: full of humour, insight, and occasional kernels of truth. Readers planning a trip to New Zealand may even find a glimpse of what awaits, as the real locations described are easily discoverable.

As we entered the year 2000, America and the world stood at a great crossroads. At the threshold of the third millennium, a new age of Super Civilization was emerging. A contemporary civilization had successfully arrived at the long-awaited gateway of the year 2000, having overcome potential apocalyptic obstacles along the way. The journey ahead into the future, far beyond the Y2K takeoff, seemed bright with promise and hope, yet great challenges lay ahead.Three roads stretch forth into the future from the past, along routes already ventured upon, but now requiring a renewed sense of direction and destination. Especially important today are: creating global powerhouses in diverse ways, elevating national politics in America and around the world, and enlightening the public mind in spiritual, cosmological, and political contexts. The people of America and the world today can help those of tomorrow ensure the survival and progress of planet Earth and secure its universal destiny.

Many people recognize wisdom as an important ideal, but the subject is rarely studied in public education or widely understood outside academia. Drawing from historical and contemporary research in psychology, philosophy, and education, Developing Practical Wisdom describes, in language accessible to any thoughtful reader, how people can intentionally learn to become wiser. The narrative provides a comprehensive set of pedagogical tools, including theories and practices, for developing deeply coherent perspectives on the world and the people in it. It explains how to cultivate coherent thinking and apply moral principles in daily life.

Red grows up in the rarefied world of a privileged Manhattan childhood: a world of uniformed doormen, private schools, and elegant townhouses. This is also the world of the 1960s, when societal conflicts are disrupting previously accepted patterns of American life. As author John F. Reinus reveals through richly detailed observation, there's a powerful current beneath the surface, and the presumed advantages of his birthright come at a heavy cost, one that is amplified by the sorrow of an unacknowledged love.The author weaves a tapestry of minute details, as seen in Red's journey from childhood to adulthood, inviting us to compare what's on the surface of our own lives to the hidden forces that shape us.

Three men; three voyages; one century. This book is about the beginning of the modern global order which was created around 1500 in one of the most marginal countries in Europe. The Black Ships were the engines of the voyages of discovery, which linked Europe to Asia for the first time. The brutal men who sailed these ships were excited by neither the search for unknown lands nor by scientific curiosity, but by the deadly contest between Christian and Muslim that consumed Europe for nearly a thousand years. The men of Portugal determined that they would engage in the greatest and final crusade: to rid the world of Islam. To do so, they forged new technologies that enabled them to cross oceans. They never quite achieved their aims. But they changed the world.

According to the standard interpretation of quantum mechanics, the wave function is a pure mathematical entity with no other reality, than that its size renders the probability of observing a particle at a given position in space. The author, on the other hand, believes, that the wave field is very real and that it directs the particles into the observed positions by exerting forces upon them. More importantly, he claims that he has found experimental proof of this. These experiments are described in detail in the book and may easily be repeated by anyone interested. Apart from proving the main point, the experiments yield some astounding results which, among other things, suggest that here are signals that move faster than light in contradiction with Einstein's theory. It is well-known that a similar situation arises in connection with the phenomenon of entanglement. This leads the author to a closer examination of the basics of the two theories of relativity. As he tries to make quantum mechanics more easily comprehensible, so with relativity. He reintroduces the concepts of absolute time and absolute mass, and on this basis makes surprising new derivations of Einstein's famous energy equation, the dependence of mass with velocity and of the formula for the time dilation. A final question. Can consciousness play any role in physical theory? The author answers affirmatively, and in fact he makes diligent use of the concept in his models. Hence the title of the book.

Learn your ABCs and identify letters with your favourite animals. With each letter we meet a new friend and find out what it is that they like to do. This book is a fun way for you to learn your letters and what they look like. See if you can find all the letters throughout this fun and creative story of your friends!

From Handbags to Hand Grenades is the riveting true story of Kathryn West, a courageous front-line officer in London's Metropolitan Police force. From 1990 to 2020, she dedicated her life to serving and protecting the people of Britain during some of the most historical and life-altering events of our time. This gripping memoir follows her career, intertwining significant news stories that shook the nation. To preserve anonymity, some names and places have been changed, but the events surrounding them remain unaltered. Readers will be transported to the heart of the action, from the harrowing Tavistock Square bombing and the attacks on Westminster Bridge to the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower. West's narrative balances true grit with humorous anecdotes, including tales of politicians'lost handbags, visits to the White House, and dancing at the vibrant Notting Hill Carnival. Through her eyes, readers will gain unprecedented insight into the inner workings of the Metropolitan Police. From the first page, West's authentic voice will draw you in, revealing the sadness and happiness, lies and deceit that police officers must navigate daily. Prepare to laugh, cry, and have your eyes opened wide as you witness the reality of life behind the thin blue line.

For many, a summer romance is fleeting, its excitement fading with the season. As autumn nears, the meetings become rare, the thrill wanes, and the feelings gently dissolve. But what happens when they don't? This story delves into the aftermath of a summer romance between two women, poetically exploring the enduring emotions and where they lead. It asks: where does love go when it slips away too soon?

Stephanie Mendelson shares a gripping account of the most difficult and gut-wrenching time in her life. She finds herself as the caregiver to both of her parents as they simultaneously face terminal illness. She supports her mother through an unexpected battle with cancer, while trying to navigate her father's worsening dementia. A series of unbelievable and catastrophic life events take her down a road that she never could have imagined. The ride is full of heartbreak and unthinkable stress, but there she also finds love and perspective. Her story is infused with humor and joy, even as she faces her darkest days. Go along with her on the journey of the child becoming the parent that many of us will face Bear witness to the anguish and simultaneous beauty of being there until their last breath.

Attending college in the late 60s and early 70s was a challenge, but for Susan (now known as Sonya), it was also a blessing. Despite suffering an identity crisis during her sophomore year and navigating the pitfalls of the drug culture, Susan ultimately benefited from the open-minded spirit of the era.This book, however, starts at the beginning of Susan's education, during her kindergarten year, where she flourished in a magical world shared with her best friend. This idyllic time abruptly ended when her father uprooted the family from their Queens apartment to Schenectady for a job teaching music in public schools. The transition was difficult, and it took years for Susan to thrive in her new environment. Her awkward growth spurt alienated her from peers, and an encounter with a bully left her traumatized. Yet, the most challenging relationship was with her mother.Fortunately, Susan was guided by a series of role models. Her father, a soulful musician, remained devoted and his love shone through the darkest times. Her Hebrew School principal, a Holocaust survivor, inspired her with his faith and New Age vision of the future. Two public school teachers believed in her, fostering her self-confidence. Under the wings of her Aunt Sonia, a disabled woman with an infectious positive attitude, Susan thrived. Aunt Sonia's captivating stories also illuminated their fascinating family history.

Spite at last is named: the Necromancer is its leader and he is seeking a return to the World that banished him. Earth's Blood, once thought to be the Dwarves, is now revealed in the One Tree; it is everyone's and everything's. And this is what the Necromancer needs to return as within it is the power of hope and despair, a prophecy which seems to suggest his mastery of the past, the present and the future. Caliphe and Taithe are sucked deeper and deeper into his designs as they travel within the mountains and the great forest of Glimmershade. Terrible truths are revealed to both as they battle Dark Witches, rogue Giants, Neffelin, ancient forestalls, and venture into the hidden fortresses of Raven's Loft and Gul-a-Dor. The Effelin, Caliphe's race, are ruined by their past, and this is what they must first undo in overcoming the Necromancer. The past is his. But can they save the present and the future from him? This is the fight they face and to do that they must not only understand their pasts, but also come to terms with their futures which seem increasingly bleak. Can they hold onto the love they have for each other, in the face of mounting criticism from foes and allies alike?

With so much information out there, getting in shape has become a minefield of confusing and expensive plans and products both good and bad alike. Thousands of diets and workouts that leave you miserable, hungry, maybe even malnourished, and not a clue where to turn next once the current trend has failed you. But would you believe me if I said it's all extremely simple when you have the right information? This journal has been expertly designed to help you figure out exactly what you want when it comes to your health, fitness, and lifestyle. It gives you guidelines that help you improve your nutrition and lifestyle without demanding you starve yourself or never eat your favourite foods again. Best of all it does it in a way that's enjoyable, fun, and decided by YOU. To make change easy, you first need to change your mindset, and that is what this journal is all about. It finally gives you that peace of mind you've been looking for when it comes to your diet and takes away the stress that you feel every time you look in the mirror.

Claudius's invasion of Britannia was achieved almost unopposed. The few pockets of credible resistance were ruthlessly crushed by the machine that was the Roman army. What followed was a tense but relatively peaceful co-existence, even some merging of cultures. That peaceful life was shattered by greed and oppression, when the new Emperor, Nero, forces a change in hierarchy in the province. Paulinus, a brutal Governor, and Catus, the mercilessly greedy Procurator, badly misjudged the mood of the Britons. A misjudgement that led to something that had never happened before: a uniting of the Britannic tribes. Theft of inheritance, a viciously humiliating beating of Queen Boudica, and the rape of her daughters sets in motion a rebellion that grows into an unstoppable, often uncontrollable army. Weyland, a Briton and the son of a blacksmith, who as a boy was trained by a Roman soldier to fight as a Roman, becomes an unlikely player in Boudica's plans to draw the Governor into fulfilling his pledge to eradicate the Druids. Now, with the majority of the Roman army in the west of the country, Boudica sets about gathering together an overwhelming horde, hell-bent on revenge for years of occupation. There can be only one outcome: victory or death.

Adam would never have imagined how life would change for him after he moved in to live with his uncle Steve… At the beginning of this story, we are introduced to three friends Adam, Josh and Jane whose lives are inexorably bound together by a strong friendship. Adam is a young man caught in a web of control and domination. The story includes themes of sexual, emotional and physical abuse. Some of this content is explicit. It confronts the issues of a confused sexuality, loss and grief. Adam reflects on the confusion, pain and struggles of his life as he enters adulthood. Can Adam rediscover a relationship he once had with a person he grew to love from childhood?

The saga continues with Genevieve, now a ward of her old foe Fulgar. An unusual alliance forms, allowing her to use his resources to travel the world, crossing war zones, sub-Saharan deserts, and snowy mountain peaks in search of answers. After a decade of being considered missing and presumed dead, she returns to Clarence City a hero. Though thought to be healed of its organized crime problem after the Moretti Massacre, Clarence City begins to experience a resurgence of criminal activity when a man with a vendetta arrives from Sicily. Adding to her woes is a dark entity with terrifying, cataclysmic ambitions of scorched earth and “Finis Dierum” – the end of days.

Abuse in every form… physical, psychological, sexual, emotional and even spiritual... descends upon her. A story of facing down demons, both inner and those that seek you out. They come under the cover of darkness. A battle bordering on unbelief… Can it be survived or do you succumb to the evil that continually surrounds you, that seeks to possess you..? Not a fight, not an altercation, but a war to the death. There is no way to come out of this unscathed. The scars will be plentiful, but invisible. The fight has lasted decades, but these hellish forces did not count on her endurance. After what the darkness considered successful attacks, after knocking her down so many times, robbing her of every conceivable ounce of hope, snatching away her dignity, convincing her that her time had run out… they never saw it coming. When you are drowning… you learn to walk on water…

Immerse yourself in a captivating fantasy novel written by a talented young author with a vivid imagination. Step into a world of enchantment and adventure, embarking on an exciting journey through the pages of this compelling tale. With rich world-building and engaging characters, the author weaves intricate plots that keep readers hooked as they follow the protagonist's quest to uncover deep mysteries. The main character unknowingly sets out on a challenging and emotionally profound path, guided by a force capable of creating evocative settings. This journey of discovery seeks to reveal the truths of life, with references to the past and signs inherited from ancestors weaving the story together. Remote bonds, seemingly unconnected, ultimately converge in a stunning revelation. Despite the wise old master's guidance, the truth remains obscured by unfolding events. The realignment of entrenched realities heralds a new beginning and a fresh start. Don't miss this enchanting adventure from a promising new voice in fantasy fiction.

Step into a world where the surreal and the unexpected collide in this collection of twelve captivating short stories. Each tale invites you to explore strange and wondrous realms: a little girl embarks on a quest for friendship, while a Halloween pumpkin delivers an astonishing surprise. You'll encounter a book so enthralling that it literally pulls readers into its pages. As you delve deeper into this collection, you'll uncover the hidden mysteries beneath our basements, discover the secrets of escape, and confront your most terrifying nightmares. Journey through the curious origins of oranges, learn the perils of midnight flights, and unravel the intricacies of crafting the perfect story. The final trio of stories takes a different turn, offering a glimpse into the truth about humanity and revealing how coincidences can shape our world – for better or for worse.

This book picks up where Two'fer ended. Kaleb's twin sisters have been lured into the world of high-end trafficking, their innocence shattered. Although they are identical twins, they cope with the horrors in completely different ways. Determined to rescue them, their brother Kaleb enlists professional mercenaries for the mission.Despite the traumatic situations they face, the sisters manage to maintain their faith, which ultimately sustains them through their ordeal. This story takes readers on a wild, unpredictable race to save these young girls, providing a glimpse into the ever-growing, horrific trade of human trafficking. Down the Rabbit Hole not only offers surprises and hope, but also critically examines the complicity of the wealthy in this hideous illicit industry.

This book captures the flowing thoughts, emotions, and reflections of a young girl or woman, silently dreaming of what could be. It explores the limitless possibilities of turning dreams into reality. As you journey through life, before it's too late, embrace its wonders, and strive to reach the heaven you've imagined. Yet, in your pursuit, never forget the value of simplicity and humility. The greatest fortune in life belongs to the soul that never abandons the dream closest to their heart. Challenges are inevitable, but by confronting the darkness, we find the light. Along the way, remember that kindness is a priceless gift – ours to share. A simple smile can brighten someone's day, and when you love, let it be true and unwavering, locking it in your heart forever. Above all, love yourself abundantly. No love will ever be greater than the love you give yourself. Let your shadow be your own, not a reflection of someone else's. Show gratitude for both the good and the bad, for they have shaped who you are today. The rest will follow in its own time.

The Beginning unfolds across two picturesque settings—rural Tuscany and the canals of England. This captivating story centres on an English woman who unknowingly becomes entangled with a man hiding a dangerous secret. He is a wanted criminal on the run from the Metropolitan Police, masquerading as his twin brother, who remains blissfully unaware of his sibling's nefarious activities. As the narrative weaves between these two locales, the woman's journey of discovery and the criminal's deception promise a thrilling and suspenseful read.

“A FASCINATING GLIMPSE INTO COMPLEX CHARACTERS ON BOTH RIGHT AND WRONG SIDES OF THE LAW, BY AUTHOR AND RETIRED JUDGE JACK BILLINGS, WHO UNDOUBTEDLY HAS SEEN BOTH UP-CLOSE.” Randi Bjornstad, career journalist, founder, EUGENE SCENE, e-magazine ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Police always encounter people they never forget. For Megan O'Brian, one was Chad Mitchell, a scared, mistreated little boy she encountered while working as a juvenile corrections officer. She always wondered what happened to him. Then they met again. By then a sheriff's detective, O'Brian was lead investigator for the disappearance of talented Cassie Edwards, who failed to return home from her regular bus trip to and from a piano lesson after her 15th birthday party. She wore as always her favorite gift, a beautiful and unusual necklace, given to her by her grandmother. The trail goes frustratingly cold as O'Brian and fellow investigators, Cal Underwood and Herman Jackson, search in vain for clues to her whereabouts and her fate, until a deer poacher finds Cassie's body in a remote area. But finding her killer eludes them, until O'Brian has a sudden, middle-of-the-night realization: a photograph Jackson had taken of recovered stolen property in another case. One of those photos shows an unusual necklace, identical to the one Cassie wore in a picture from her birthday party. Did Cassie's killer take the necklace as a trophy? How did it get into a trove of stolen property? Did the killer try to get rid of it? Or was it stolen from the killer? And who were they looking for? ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ “WELL-DEVELOPED CHARACTERS, ENGAGING STORY, PROFESSIONAL POLICE WORK. A GOOD READ.” Kurt Wuest, Lane County Sheriff's Detective (ret.) “UNTREATED AUTISM, METHAMPHETAMINE ADDICTION, INTERSTATE FENCING OF STOLEN PROPERTY PROPEL THIS STORY OF MURDER AND APPREHENSION TO A CONCLUSION.” Chuck Tilby, Captain, Eugene Police Department (ret.) “BILLINGS'WRITING EVOKES MICHAEL CONNELLY. A BUS SYSTEM'S OPERATION IS CLEVERLY WOVEN INTO THE PLOT.” Mark Pangborn, General Manager, Lane Transit District (ret.)

A Man's World tells the tragic story of the Martins, a family destroyed by domestic abuse and its shattering consequences. This vivid portrayal of domestic turmoil illustrates how dysfunction can rob even the most innocent of fulfilling lives, asking where the bystanders were who could have made a difference.It opens as teenagers Janet and Craig find young love before Craig shows his dark side at the senior prom. Their toxic relationship spirals into a marriage as cruel and domineering as Janet's own parents. The story bears witness to the terror in which Janet, Craig, and their three children live under Craig's dictatorship. They could have been a family who played ballgames and went on picnics; instead, they endured Craig's insatiable thirst for control until it ultimately killed him.Emerging from the wreckage is a very different Katie than the carefree little girl she once was. Tormented by her father and neglected by her mother, Craig's behavior molded Katie into a resentful woman obsessed with revenge against domineering men. To prevent others from suffering her mother's fate, Katie will go to any length necessary… even kill.

These are short stories presented in poetic form. The cadence of poetry lends air and space to a story and heightens anticipation. There is war, loss, love and redemption in this work.Accompanying these poems are some gritty short stories with twists as unexpected as a Twilight Zone episode. They are at times stark and unforgiving.

A middle-aged man stands at a crossroads in his life, facing two journeys he must navigate at once. One journey takes him to the United States, offering a chance to find breathing space; the other, an inward exploration to rediscover and reassert his sense of self. Filled with conflicting emotions, unexpected twists, and transformative moments, this story promises to surprise, excite, and move the reader.

Enchanting and charming are everyday words for us today, as are magic and magical. We talk of magic tricks, of magicians and magical moments, magical mystery tours, moods or music. But there is a magic, an old magic which exists in an ancient realm far, far older than us and all of our modern magic. It is as old as life itself and interweaves amongst us in our sleeping and half-sleep states. The old magic kingdom is home to dragons, to spells and fables, mermaids, fairies and to unicorns. The Fairies from Number 55 are excited to be on their first holiday away, beyond the bridleway. Staying with their affectionate aunt, Sunbeam and uncle Mistral, they are delighted to be joining their cousins Pippin and Clover, who are so very like them. Pippin and Clover have wings of light bright greenish and bronze hues and resemble, in the right shade of light, a pair of damsel flies. Before very long, the fairy family are once again cheerfully weaving in and out of the lives of yet more woodland creatures and tiny “giants”, making gifts, rescuing fawns and even restoring Woody the Wonder Dog's bark!

Mirrors is a collection of three stories that look beyond the surface of what reality appears to be. MirrorsKatrina has worked the same job in the same small town her entire life. She has always considered herself and her existence nothing but commonplace and boring until a birthday present—one she promised herself never to use—changed everything. Each of us has a different version of ourselves. Some are better when left undiscovered. DeciduousDaisy wakes up in a hospital bed with vague memories and broken images of her past. Her caretaker explains that she was the sole survivor of a tragic accident that left her parents dead.They are all in a room, says a pressing voice that will soon lead her to discover the transience of seasons as they bring about death and form new life.What's On the Menu?Chris Newberry has won the most coveted prize that one could win: a trip to What's On the Menu?In a society that relies solely on supplements for sustenance, What's On the Menu? is the only chance to experience the long-lost sensation of eating. But in order to get there, you have to win the lottery. And if you do win, the trip is one you might never forget.

When Tom Charter visits Uncle Simeon, he meets Great Uncle Ignatius, and Ignatius's adopted daughter, Philomena. Tom and Philomena discover a magical connection: both have just started seeing people's auras. After a fateful accident involving Philomena, Tom gets invited to Ignatius's home, a Northumbrian castle, and the mysterious Gaia School that it secretly houses. There, Tom learns that the castle network monitors climate changes, all now compromised by villainous forces. Led by antagonist Antonio Schirru, this ‘dark side'triggers alarms. Tom and Philomena tail Schirru across the wild Northumbrian countryside, seeking answers. The chase goes deep underground, where a cryptic tunnel revelation suggests an insider's betrayal. Back home, after agreeing to join the Gaia School, Tom receives formal acceptance. While in London picking up his school uniform, Tom's family takes a short vacation. But dark clouds are gathering, and Tom must soon join his friends to meet soaring challenges unlike anything imaginable. As Tom steps firmly onto his destined path, he will be asked to rise to unforetold heights, and in the process, discover hidden depths within himself.